Irish Names that Start With D

  1. Dahy
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "quick-footed"
    • Description:

      A long shot, but it could join the crop of dashing Irish surname names.
  2. Dacey
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "from the south"
    • Description:

      Great way to honor either Irish or Southern heritage without being too on the nose. Similar to other boys' names like Pacey, Casey, Percy and Chauncy.
  3. Dugan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "swarthy"
    • Description:

      Dugan is an open, friendly, and cheery Irish surname that would be suited to a dark-haired boy.
  4. Dublin
    • Origin:

      Irish place-name
    • Description:

      With Galway and Ireland in play as names (not to mention Shannon and Kerry), there's no reason this one can't work, too.
  5. Diarmaid
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "free man"
    • Description:

      This authentic form of the name of an Irish mythological hero with the power to make women fall instantly in love with him would work far better here as the Anglicized Dermot.
  6. Dermot
    • Origin:

      Irish, Anglicization of Diarmaid
    • Meaning:

      "free from envy"
    • Description:



      Dermot is an appealing, relatively undiscovered Irish mythological hero's name long popular in the Old Country, and imported into the American consciousness by actor Dermot Mulroney. We see it in the next Celtic wave following Connor and Liam.
  7. Daman
    • Description:

      Daman is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Indian traditions, it derives from Sanskrit meaning 'string' or 'rope,' symbolizing binding strength. It also appears in Greek mythology connected to Damon, a figure representing loyalty and friendship. Some may see it as a variation of Damian, which has Greek origins meaning 'to tame' or 'subdue.' Daman has a strong, concise sound that travels well across cultures. The name's relative simplicity and international character make it appealing to parents seeking a name that feels both distinctive and accessible. Its cross-cultural nature allows it to carry different meaningful associations depending on one's heritage.
  8. Drennon
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "son of Draighnean"
    • Description:

      Brennan alternative.
  9. Dooley
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "dark hero"
    • Description:

      A common Irish surname that's seldom heard as a first name, but has an appealing meaning.
  10. Duryea
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "from the stream"
    • Description:

      Irish name with an intriguing lilt.
  11. Donall
    • Description:

      Donall is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, representing a variant spelling of Dónall or Domhnall, which ultimately derives from the elements 'dubno' meaning 'world' and 'val' meaning 'rule' or 'mighty.' The traditional meaning is often interpreted as 'world ruler' or 'world mighty.' This name has ancient Celtic roots and was borne by several Irish kings and notable historical figures. While less common than the anglicized Donald, Donall maintains stronger connections to its Gaelic heritage. The name has moderate usage in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora, though it remains relatively uncommon elsewhere. Donall projects strength, leadership, and a connection to Irish cultural traditions, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic roots.
  12. Dáivi
    • Description:

      Dáivi is a masculine name of Sámi origin (indigenous people of northern Scandinavia), representing a form of David. The accent over the 'a' indicates specific pronunciation patterns in the Sámi language. Like its Hebrew root, it carries meanings associated with 'beloved' or 'cherished.' Unlike the internationally common David, Dáivi remains culturally specific to Sámi communities in regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The name reflects the preservation of indigenous identity within Nordic cultures and represents cultural pride for many Sámi families. Its distinctive pronunciation and spelling maintain cultural heritage while connecting to the worldwide David tradition. For those with Sámi ancestry, choosing Dáivi honors traditional naming practices while offering a unique identity in global contexts.
  13. Derrig
    • Description:

      Derrig is a masculine name with Irish Gaelic origins, likely derived from the word "dearg" meaning "red." It may have originally been a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion before evolving into a surname and later a given name. Derrig has a strong, compact sound that conveys masculinity and Celtic heritage. The name is quite rare as a first name, making it an uncommon choice that stands out. Its Irish roots make it appealing to families with Celtic connections seeking something distinctive yet culturally meaningful. While not appearing frequently in naming statistics, Derrig offers a bold alternative to more common Irish names, carrying connotations of vigor and distinctiveness through its connection to the vibrant red color.

  14. Dunbar
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "castle headland"
    • Description:

      Clear and strong, if a little heavy.
  15. Donough
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "brown chieftain"
    • Description:

      Barely-used Irish surname that's more streamlined than popular Donovan.
  16. Dolan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "black-haired"
    • Description:

      Fresh choice that could pick up where Dylan and Logan left off.
  17. Dinsmore
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "dark moor"
    • Description:

      This Celtic surname is familiar but barely used at all as a first name.
  18. Donnan
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "small brown-haired child"
    • Description:

      This Irish saint's name makes an attractive alternative for Dylan or Donald.
  19. Derrik
    • Description:

      Derrik is a masculine name representing a spelling variation of Derek or Derrick. The name ultimately derives from the Old Germanic name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people.' This particular spelling maintains the sound of the original while offering a slightly different visual presentation. Derrik gained some usage in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, though it has always been less common than the standard Derek spelling. The name carries associations of strength and leadership from its etymological roots, while maintaining a friendly, approachable quality. Derrik tends to evoke images of a dependable, masculine individual. While not among the most popular male names, it offers parents a recognizable but somewhat less common alternative to the standard spelling.

  20. Doherty
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "not loving"
    • Description:

      Surname that could have pronunciation problems -- it's Dorrity -- as well as having an off-putting meaning.